Learn Hardcore Malay: Namun, saya masih perlukan buah segar untuk hidangan itu. - However, I still need fresh fruit for that dish.

The sentence translates to "However, I still need fresh fruit for that dish." It conveys that despite any previous context, there remains a need for fresh fruit specifically intended for a particular dish.

What does the word "namun" mean and how is it used in this sentence?

"Namun" means "however" or "but" in English. It’s used at the beginning of the sentence as a transitional word to introduce a contrast or a differing point in relation to what might have been mentioned earlier.

What is the role of "masih" in this sentence?

"Masih" translates to "still" in English. It indicates continuity—that even now or despite other factors, the speaker’s need for fresh fruit remains unfulfilled.

Why is the verb form "perlukan" used here instead of "perlu"?

In Malay, "perlu" means "need," but when used as a transitive verb with an explicit object, it is often modified to "perlukan" by adding the suffix "-kan." This form emphasizes that a specific, definite object (in this case, buah segar or fresh fruit) is required.

How does adjective placement work in the phrase "buah segar"?

In Malay, adjectives typically come after the noun. So "buah segar" literally translates to "fruit fresh," which in proper English word order becomes "fresh fruit." This is a common pattern in Malay grammar where the descriptive term follows the noun it modifies.

What does "hidangan itu" mean, and why is the word "itu" included?

"Hidangan" means "dish" or "meal," and "itu" is a demonstrative pronoun meaning "that" (or sometimes "the" when referring to something previously mentioned). Using "itu" specifies that the dish in question is a particular one known from the context.